Sword (Ral gri)

Unknown

14th–16th century · Iron, steel, gold, silver · Arms and Armor

This is one of the best examples from a small group of rare early swords from Tibet. The hilt of this sword, including its grip, is made entirely of iron that has been embossed, chiseled, and then damascened in gold and silver. The guard, just below the grip, is in the form of a stylized mask with teeth and fangs, representing a protective deity or guardian figure. Straight double-edged blades of this type are seen more often on Chinese swords, but they were also used in Tibet.

Artist

Unknown

Date

14th–16th century

Medium

Iron, steel, gold, silver

Culture

Tibetan or Chinese

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Purchase, Rogers Fund and Fletcher Fund, by exchange, 1995